Flowers for grandparents are given on birthdays, holidays and for no reason at all — and also on 1 October, the UN International Day of Older Persons. Such a gift is valued for the thought, not the size. Here is which flowers and plants are practical for older people, what to avoid and how to make relatives happy if you live far away. Ideas for other people and occasions are in our guide what to give: gift ideas. For ideas beyond flowers, see gift ideas for grandma. Gift ideas for grandfathers: gifts for grandpa.
Light, long-lasting bouquets and potted plants can be ordered with delivery, and a flower basket makes a festive greeting.
Spray roses and lisianthus in pastel or warm tones, chrysanthemums, alstroemeria and carnations all work well; in spring tulips and daffodils, in summer garden flowers such as peonies, asters and dahlias. Many grandmothers love "their" flowers that grew in their own garden — if you know her favourite, that is the best choice. For more ideas, see our guide to flowers for mum: much of it applies to grandmothers too.
Older men often appreciate practical gifts. Good options are a compact bouquet of bright flowers (sunflowers, chrysanthemums, gerberas), a houseplant, a fruit basket with a small bouquet, or — for a gardener — a sapling, bulbs or potted herbs.
A flowering plant lasts longer than a bouquet, but choose an easy one: Phalaenopsis orchid, kalanchoe, African violet, peace lily, spider plant. If there are cats at home or small grandchildren visit often, check whether the plant is toxic — see houseplants that are toxic to pets and children.
| Flower | Meaning | Suits |
|---|---|---|
| Chrysanthemum | longevity, wisdom | grandma and grandpa |
| Cream or pink rose | gratitude, tenderness | grandma |
| Alstroemeria | strong family bonds | grandma |
| Sunflower | warmth, strength | grandpa |
| Iris | respect, dignity | grandpa |
Older people are often attached to the flowers of their youth: field daisies, lilac, peonies. If you remember what grew in your grandmother's garden, that's the best guide.
Daily flower care can be hard for elderly people, so choose long-lasting varieties: chrysanthemums, alstroemerias, carnations and spray roses last 10–14 days. Bring the bouquet already in a vase or in a box with floral foam, so there's no need to find a vase or trim stems. Leave a short note: change the water every two days and keep the flowers away from radiators.
Order delivery of a bouquet with a vase or a basket arrangement and add a card with warm words from the grandchildren. It is lovely if you call at the moment of delivery — for older people, a real conversation matters most. Choose a convenient delivery time, in the morning or afternoon when they are sure to be home.
The UN observes it on 1 October.
Chrysanthemums, alstroemeria, carnations, spray roses and lisianthus — 10–20 days with fresh water.
A houseplant, a fruit basket, potted herbs or a sapling for the garden.
Chrysanthemums, alstroemerias, carnations and spray roses last 10–14 days, especially in a box with floral foam.
Author: Maria Svitlovir
Graduated from Taras Shevchenko National University of Kyiv, Institute of Biology and Medicine (2001). BSc in Biology, MSc in Horticulture. Writes about plants, works at a garden centre selecting and repotting plants, and contributes to plant reference guides.
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